Today sees the launch of Grown in Britain Week, which aims to raise awareness of ensuring a sustainable future for UK forests and woodlands.
Running until 20 October, the week will see a number of events taking place around the country including woodland walks, wildlife spotting and the chance to explore the world of fungi on the forest floor.
Grown in Britain also has a serious side as it looks to build a concerted action plan to create a more sustainable future for our woodlands and forests, and for the development of a stronger wood culture amongst our society.
Grown in Britain is the core of a comprehensive response to this challenge.
The aims of Grown in Britain are:
1. Create a new and stronger market pull for the array of products derived from our woodlands and forests.
2. Develop private sector funding that supports the planting and management of woodland and forests through funding from businesses as part of their corporate social responsibility.
3. Connect together and harness the positive energy and feelings towards our woodlands and forests that many in our society share to create a strong wood culture. For health, fitness, well-being, community and spirit and to promote the buying of more British woodland derived products.
In March 2011 government invited an independent panel, chaired by the Bishop of Liverpool, to advise on the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England.
The panel reported to government in July 2012 and the origin of the Grown in Britain programme can be found within the panel's recommendations.
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